Shreyas Talpade gets 6-pack abs like Sallu, SRK

Actor Shreyas Talpade who is sporting a new look these days talks about his fitness and diet regime.

You have freshly acquired a six pack physique. Are you trying to get a new image?

More than the image, I wanted to change certain perception, and also about being typecast in a particular genre. The eye opener was when a producer came with a particular script and he mentioned that he wanted raw action, but the director asked whether I would be able to pull of the role as I tend to have a softer image.

For an actor, it wasn't great news at all. I understand that in our industry along with talent, you need to have a good physique to present yourself. I want to do good films and explore different genres. I was being a little lazy, dillydallying, but finally I decided to get up and do it. So I set a deadline for myself and decided that by my birthday on 27th January I should have a decent physique in a natural way. I am glad that I managed do it.

NEXT: Shreyas's fitness regime

So what kind of fitness regime do you follow?

I have been working out from last five months. Considering my hectic work schedules I would sometimes work out even after my late night shoots. I work out 4 to 5 days in a week for an hour and half.

It's a combination of weights, cardio, stretching, kick boxing. A functional training, mix and match like my film (smiles). It's not about six packs but about having a good body that would last long. Now it's become a part of my routine.

Do you have a dietician or an instructor to maintain your fitness levels?

There is enough information on the net, you need to just read and focus on it. First understand your body that will automatically help you to know what is good or bad for your system.

NEXT: Shreyas's diet plan

What is your diet like?

For the first four months I strictly followed my protein diet, was eating only egg whites, baked chicken and boiled vegetables. I eat everything in moderation. But now I am taking it easy and have started having regular food like dal, rice, roti and sabzi (vegetables). But I switch on to my protein diet once in two days.

I have a sweet tooth but I have stopped eating sweets except on few family occasions. Dinner is usually light and I always make it a point to have an early dinner.

NEXT: Yoga or meditation

Any sport or habits outside of exercise that help you maintain your body?

Apart from cricket I play badminton and table tennis. When I play cricket I don't work out because it covers almost everything.

Do you meditate or do yoga?

I meditate everyday for around 15 minutes. I've been practicing it for nearly 22 years now and believe me it has worked wonders on my mind and body.

It helps me focus and concentrate better.

NEXT: Shreyas on sallu, Akki, Deepika and Bips

Who according to you are the fittest celebs male/women?

It has to be Salman bhai (Khan) and Akki bhai (Kumar) who have been so fit. Salman bhai whohas beenstrictly following the workout routine for the last 20 years and is not bored of it.

I have heard that he works out for two hours four days a week. Akki bhai has also maintained himself with squats and free hand exercise.

Deepika Padukone being a sports person has a fit body. Bipasha Basu has also taken good care of her body. It's really fantastic the way she has transformed herself from then to now.

NEXT: Motivation to maintain fitness

What do you do to keep yourself motivated towards your workout schedule?

My trainer Manoj (Singh) is my biggest motivator, so many thanks to him. He is just a call away and is ever ready to train me irrespective of time. Sometimes when I am lazy, I plan to skip my gym but he somehow convinces me to workout for at least 30 minutes.

It's good if there's someone who can motivate you to exercise and keep fit. I have always been lazy, it took me six years to be where I am today there is a long way to go.

NEXT: Diet advice for readers

Do you have any fitness/diet advice for our readers?

A healthy body is important because, as an individual, your first responsibility is towards yourself. Your body is like a temple and should be respected and taken care of. Eat and drink (alcohol) in moderation.

Half an hour walking is a must for everyone. One can achieve a lot more in life if one is mentally and physically fit.